Australian seniors receiving the Age Pension are set to benefit from a payment boost starting in April 2025. These updates come as part of the government’s regular indexation to reflect cost-of-living pressures and inflation trends.
If you’re a current recipient or approaching eligibility, here’s everything you need to know about the new payment amounts, eligibility rules, and how to ensure you receive the maximum support available.
What’s Changing in April 2025?
Beginning March 20, 2025, Age Pension payments will increase by up to $7 per fortnight for couples and $4.60 for singles. These increases reflect adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the Pensioner and Beneficiary Living Cost Index (PBLCI).
This increase provides greater financial security for older Australians amid rising costs of essentials like groceries, rent, and energy bills.
New Age Pension Rates from April 2025
Here is a breakdown of the updated fortnightly payment rates for Age Pension recipients:
| Recipient Type | Previous Rate | New Rate (April 2025) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $1,144.40 | $1,149.00 | $4.60 |
| Couple (each) | $862.60 | $866.10 | $3.50 |
| Couple (combined) | $1,725.20 | $1,732.20 | $7.00 |
These payments include the base rate, pension supplement, and energy supplement.
Eligibility Criteria for the Age Pension
To receive the Age Pension, you must meet all of the following:
- Age Requirement: Must be 67 years or older (as of July 1, 2023).
- Residency: Must be an Australian resident and have lived in Australia for at least 10 years, with 5 years of continuous residence.
- Income and Assets Test: Your earnings and assets are assessed to determine eligibility and payment amounts.
Income and Assets Thresholds (2025)
Income Test:
| Status | Income Allowed (Fortnightly) | Reduction Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Single | Up to $212 | 50 cents per $1 over |
| Couple (combined) | Up to $372 | 50 cents per $1 over |
Assets Test:
| Status | Homeowner | Non-Homeowner |
|---|---|---|
| Single (Full Pension) | $314,000 | $566,000 |
| Couple (Full Pension) | $470,000 | $722,000 |
Payments are reduced by $3 per fortnight for every $1,000 over the threshold.
Additional $750 One-Off Bonus in April 2025
In addition to the regular pension increase, eligible recipients will also receive a $750 one-off bonus payment in April 2025.
- Who Gets It: Age Pensioners, Carer Payment recipients, Disability Support Pensioners, and eligible cardholders.
- When: The bonus will be deposited between April 15 and April 30, 2025.
- How: Automatically paid into your registered bank account — no action needed.
Public Holidays & Payment Timing in April
April includes several public holidays that may affect pension payment dates:
- Good Friday: April 18, 2025
- Easter Monday: April 21, 2025
- Anzac Day: April 25, 2025
If your payment is scheduled around these dates, it may be made earlier than usual. Always check your upcoming payment calendar to stay updated.
The April 2025 Age Pension update brings welcome news for Australian retirees. With increases in fortnightly payments and a one-time $750 bonus, the government aims to cushion the impact of inflation on pensioners.
Understanding your eligibility, knowing how much you’ll receive, and being aware of holiday impacts can help you manage your budget better.
Stay informed and proactive to get the most from your pension benefits.
FAQs
When will the new Age Pension rates be applied?
The updated rates come into effect on March 20, 2025, with the first full payments reflecting these increases made from that date onward.
Am I eligible for the $750 bonus?
You are eligible if you receive the Age Pension, Carer Payment, Disability Support Pension, or hold a qualifying seniors health card as of March 31, 2025.
Will public holidays delay my pension payment in April?
No delays are expected. In fact, if a holiday falls on your usual payment date, you may receive it earlier than scheduled.